

Some consider it a sign of an unwelcoming gesture due to its prickly spines. In some cultures, it is seen as a symbol of protection whereas in some it signifies evil intentions. Root rot is a common problem if a cactus is overwatered.Ĭactus flower meaning and symbolism vary in different cultures. They need plenty of sunlight, high temperature, and less moisture to remain healthy. Since cacti or cactuses are plants that grow originally in arid regions, they thrive best in partly sandy, well-drained soil. Due to over-harvesting, many cacti have become endangered in the wild. The interest in cactus grew so much among scientists, botanists, and gardeners that every year, new kinds of cactus were discovered.

Another purpose of this caucus was to feed the cochineal industry, where an insect is bred for producing a substance that acts like a red dye. It became popular as a natural fence for use as a natural fence. Not only did cactus plants make an impression in Europe, but the prickly pear cactus was taken to Australia in the 19th century. The unique plant created extreme curiosity and interest among scientists and plant growers. The first cactus arrived in Europe with Christopher Columbus. The national coat of arms of Mexico displays a cactus along with an eagle, and a snake. Not only was it known to the Aztec civilization of Northern Mexico but also to the Inca Empire in Peru. Although the cardoon or artichoke thistle was prickly, it is not similar to the appearance of what is now called the cactus.Ĭactus has been known to humans for centuries and finds pictorial representation in the ancient Aztec art, and sculpture. It was used for describing the Spanish artichoke or cardoon plant with spines that were found in Sicily. The word Cactus is derived from the Greek word ‘Kaktos’ in the 1600s. Fruits of some cacti like the dragon fruit, and the prickly pear are edible. Unique as they are, cactus flower meaning is also exclusive to each of the cacti plants. Most of these plants bear attractive flowers. They are very easy to grow and need minimal maintenance. Flowers and more branches grow from areoles.Ĭacti are popularly grown as houseplants. Almost all cactus species have spines or glochids (barbed bristles) that make them recognizable from the other succulent plant varieties. This is an adaptation feature of these plants as they are native to arid regions. Only a few cactus genera are native to dry regions of East Africa, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.Ĭacti are typically perennial, succulent plants that store water in their fleshy stems. Mexico has the widest variety of cacti species. Cacti originate from the desert and semi-desert regions of North and South America.

Cacti or cactuses are a large family of about 2,000 species and 139 genera. A cactus is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Cactaceae.
